Environmental authorisation required for any vegetation clearing, building or crop disturbance near wetlands or streams…
Clearing of indigenous vegetation, or building close to a watercourse or wetland, are among the many activities that could land farm owners and agricultural developers in hot water – if they don’t have the required environmental authorisations.
According to Karissa Nel of SRK Consulting, the company is often required to submit ‘Section 24G’ applications on behalf of clients who start work on a site before they have complied with the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) or other environmental legislation.
“Section 24G of NEMA provides for a formal application process to rectify activities that began without the required environmental authorisations or licenses,” said Karissa. “However, before any authorisation decision is taken, the law allows that an administrative fine of up to R5 million may be levied.”
SRK Contributor:
Karissa Nel
